Fast-Growth Startup Resources Oak Park IL

Financing sources and information

• ACE-Net
  
  Initiated by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Access to Capital Electronic Network (ACE-Net) is a not-for-profit, Internet-based listing service that allows accredited investors (primarily angels and venture capitalists) to learn about small companies seeking funds. Most investments fall into the $250,000 to $5 million range.

• Garage
  
  Garage is an Internet-based matchmaking service that links technology and life sciences startups in need of initial financing with potential investors. Entrepreneurs can confidentially submit business plans for consideration through the Web site, which also offers valuable news and information about equity funding sources.

• PricewaterhouseCoopers Money Tree
  
  The PricewaterhouseCoopers quarterly Money Tree study tracks equity investments made by venture capital companies in U.S. private companies. The site is extremely useful for tracking financing trends, and can give you an idea of the kinds of companies that are getting money.

• Private Equity Network
  
  An online meeting place designed for entrepreneurs and investors to come together, this site offers a range of useful resources, including educational materials, publications, and venture investment industry news. Much of the basic information is free, but paid membership is required for premium services.

• Vcapital
  
  Founded by a Chicago-based venture capital firm, vcapital is a clearinghouse for information and resources for high-growth startups seeking venture financing. Its network features well over 100 VCs, managing assets of more than $40 billion. In addition, it has listings of law firms, accounting firms, and other service providers for VC-seeking companies.

Associations

• National Association of Small Business Investment Companies
  
  The NASBIC is the professional trade association representing federally-licensed venture capital firms, also known as small business investment companies (SBICs). Its site contains a directory of SBICs, along with tips and hints for approaching and working with these providers.

• National Business Incubation Association
  
  This advocacy group's Web site provides information about business incubation. A links area provides access to the sites of member incubation programs.

• National Venture Capital Association
  
  The trade association representing the venture capital and private equity financing industries, the NVCA is an excellent source for VC trends and industry statistics.

Publications/Newsletters

• Red Herring
  
  The Web site of this technology business publication is full of news and analysis of the latest venture capital deals. Subscribe to the free Catch of the Day email newsletter to find out about some of the latest Internet and technology trends.

• VentureWire
  
  This free email newsletter includes news of the latest technology and Internet venture capital deals. It is published by Technologic Partners, which also puts out the monthly VentureFinance publication.